TheVisitor
Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter October 2012 • Vol. XLVI No. 9 • www.asburyfirst.org
In This Issue Campus Planning, 5 Bill Lisi Honored, 6 Make Ministry Happen, 7 New Members, 8 Holiday Events, 11 Music Series, 12 Youth Play, 13
The Visitor
Mission Statement
Vol. XLVI No. 9
Through worship, education, outreach, and care, we develop dis-
(USPS 558-470) is published 10 times a year, monthly with combined issues for January/February and July/August, by Asbury First United Methodist Church.
ciples of Jesus Christ who live and proclaim the Gospel and thereby work to transform our culture.
A Word about autumn...
Periodical postage paid at Rochester, N.Y.
A Pastoral Reflection
POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to Asbury First UMC Visitor 1050 East Ave. Rochester, N.Y. 14607-2239 (585) 271-1050
It’s autumn! The fall decorations are up, the leaves are falling, and the heat is on. Having yet to face my first official “Rochester winter,” I’m attempting to enjoy each day of this beautiful season as it comes. Fortunately, there is much to appreciate. As I reflect on this fall, I can’t help but be appreciative for the new life to which I have already been a witness.
Staff
Rev. Susan S. Shafer Rev. Stephen Cady
Rev. Phillip W. Phaneuf Rev. Lawrence Hargrave
Kathy Thiel David T. Strong Dr. William J. Weinert Paula Dugan Melissa Bohrer Richard Moncrief Melody Guadagnino Michele Cooley Jason Franklin Mary Van Keuren Duane A. Prill David T. Strong Bozena Granat Elizabeth Church Brian Bohrer Larry Dugan
Senior Minister Minister for Faith Formation – Hospitality & Membership Care Minister for Youth & Education Minister for Outreach and Community Connection Ministries Ministry Intern Administrative Director of Music and the Arts Artistic Director of Music and the Arts Co-director of Children’s Ministry Co-director of Children’s Ministry Financial Administrator Administrative Assistant Dining & Caring Center Director Property Care Manager Communications Director & Editor Organist Assistant Organist Director, Children’s Music Director, Bell Choir Director, Youth Music Director, Youth Theater
Cover: 1050 East Ave., the Wilson Soule House, houses pastoral and administrative offices. This beautiful shot, taken on a moonlit night in September, was graciously sent to us by member Glenn Peck. Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@asburyfirst.org or (585) 271-1050 x109.
The most startling example of this is certainly the birth of our daughter, Hannah. It is hard to think of a more visceral reminder of the new life we experience in Christ than to be present for the birth of a child. It is a moment unlike any other. It feels as if the entire world should pause for a moment to celebrate the triumphant sound of the child’s first cry. And like the new life found in Christ, one’s life thereafter is never the same. Yet, Hannah is not the only new life to which I have been a witness this fall. With each worship service, visioning meeting, mission moment, and kind greeting, there have been signs of new life budding within our fellowship. The Holy Spirit is at work within this congregation. It is curious how as the flowers die, we find new life. Yet, we recognize this pattern. After all, we are a people who are called to turn expectations on their head. We are a people called to find hope in despair, mercy in pain, and, above all, life in the midst of death. Christians have never been a people who sit around as the leaves begin to fall. We are a people who greet the winter with open arms because we know what awaits, we know that though the leaves are falling, the air is cooling, and the sky is growing increasingly gray, there is new life budding. Emily and I are thankful to have begun to experience some of the new life this congregation has to offer. We have been with you now for just a few months and already in that time we have been provided with enough warmth, love, and friendship to last us through any winter. And so, as the air continues to cool, let us keep working together to open our doors and invite new people into our fellowship, because the heat is on. Grace and Peace, Rev. Stephen Cady
Deadline for next issue: Monday, November 5
2
AFUMC news Fall Clean-up Scheduled Want to get some exercise while helping out to make our church campus more beautiful? Come to Asbury First on Saturday, November 17 from 8:30 a.m.-noon for the annual fall clean-up. You’ll be helping prepare our campus for winter by raking leaves, trimming bushes, etc. If you have a favorite rake, leaf blower, or tarp, please bring that as well. Questions? Call Jason Franklin at 271-1050, x120
member Marcia Wilke speaking on “Christmas Symbols.” Items will be collected for Alternatives for Battered Women. Call Joan Closson at 671-5534 by Friday, November 16 for dinner reservations. Call Ginn Fitch at 381-6464 for more information on the Circle. Everyone is welcome – men included! Keeping Teeth Clean, All Over the Globe Thanks to all those who collected and donated toothbrushes and toothpaste at our Vacation Bible School in August. The dental materials – 124 toothpastes, 165 toothbrushes, and 4 dental flosses – will be donated to Asbury First’s international outreach partners at Miracle Garden Children’s Home and School in Theethipalayam, India and Project Chacocente in Meffel Nicaragua.
Thanks from the Graham-Raads The Graham-Raad family wishes to sincerely and most graciously thank you, the Asbury First members and congregation, for your prayers, thoughtful notes and cards during Paul’s illness.Thank you all so much for your on-going care as we together mourn our loss and celebrate Paul’s life in Christ Jesus. Can You Help the Transportation Ministry? The Transportation ministry is in need of volunteers who can give rides to AFUMC members who can no longer drive themselves. I try my best to match people with those who live closest to them. There is no time commitment (except what you make with your rider). I need people who can do this weekly or bi weekly or even monthly. We can also use substitutes. So please, consider this ministry that is often needed by our seniors who have served AFUMC for years. Call or email me if you want to discuss this further. If you are a member who needs a ride give me a call and I will do my best. – Virginia Duffy 300-5947 of drvduffy@ gmail.com.
In The News You might have seen a familiar name if you subscribe to the United Methodist magazine, Interpreter. Asbury First’s own Rev. Stephen Cady was interviewed for the cover story in the September/October issue, on holy conferencing, while still at his former church, Kingston United Methodist Church, in New Jersey. Holy conferencing, according to the story, allows church groups to work through difficult subjects with intentionality and respect for all viewpoints. At Kingston, said Rev. Cady, it “...developed out of recognizing who people were, with a theological commitment that each person is a child of God and deserves to be treated as one.”
Roudebush Circle News The next meeting for the Roudebush Circle of United Methodist Women will be Tuesday, November 20 at 6:00 p.m. in 1010 East Ave. The catered dinner (please bring your own table service) is $8.50, and the program will feature AFUMC
Miracle Garden Tsunami Children’s Home Presentation Sunday, November 18 Following the 11 o’clock service Fellowship Hall Students from Roberts Wesleyan College will be sharing details from their recent mission trip to the orphanage and school at Miracle Garden, Asbury First’s mission partner in India. A light lunch will be provided. 3
AFUMC news
worship schedule WORSHIP
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Sunday Noveber 18 Thanksgiving In-Gathering
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
Sunday October 28 Hebrews 7:23-28
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Rev. Phillip Phaneuf, preacher
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
Rev. Stephen Cady, preacher
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion 11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
Mark 13:1-8 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Sunday November 11 Ruth 3:1-5;4:13-17
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Sunday December 2 First Sunday in Advant Jeremiah 33:14-16 Rev. Phillip Phaneuf, preacher
Rev. Susan Shafer, preacher
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Sunday November 4 Mark 12:28-34
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Sunday November 25 John 18:33-37
Rev. Lawrence Hargrave, preacher
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
Rev. Stephen Cady, preacher
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion 11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
Our Living Deaths Merciful God, we entrust to your never-failing care and love We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Arthur G. Matthies who died on September12, 2012 in Arizona. We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Frank Dziduch who died on September 14, 2012.
in Community
We offer our prayers and sympathy to Devin PalmesanoBeach and Jeffery Beach on the death of Devin’s father Mark Palmesano on October 5, 2012.
Births & Baptisms God has sealed you unto love and grace divine Mia Rose Frank daughter of Tonya and Jeremy Frank, baptized on September 16, 2012.
Madelyn Marie Voelkl daughter of Sarah and Casey Voelkl, baptized on September 16, 2012.
Marriages May the blessings of God’s love go with you in your new covenant.
Charleigh Ann Eick daughter of Natalie and Andrew Eick, baptized on September 16, 2012.
Colleen Doyle and Jon Ester on their marriage October 6, 2012.
Madalyn Elizabeth Stampone daughter of Kimberly and Joshua Stampone, baptized on October 14, 2012.
Leslie Collier and Cassidy McLaughlin on their marriage October 13, 2012.
Catherine Elizabeth Smith daughter of Tammy and Adam Smith, baptized on October 14, 2012. 4
• what the future holds •
Poised for Growth and Revitalization, Asbury First’s Leadership Ponders Next Moves
T
he future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. – Eleanor Roosevelt On a recent fall evening, as the sun set behind Asbury First’s iconic steeple, a group of church members, with the support of Rev. Susan Shafer and Rev. Stephen Cady, gathered on the church campus to talk about the future of our faith community. The newly-formed Ministry and Space Task Force, led by Chuck Hanrahan, had been given a heady and challenging charge by senior minister, Rev. Susan Shafer: to take a long, hard look at how we use space on our six-acre campus and determine if we are truly using all the resources God has given us to their full capability. “Our physical space should aid us in doing God’s work and being a people of God,” said Hanrahan. “We recognize that our facilities do not yet fully serve the mission of the church.” “The initiative to have the task force look at our buildings and usage comes out of my passion to be a good steward of what we have been given in terms of our buildings,” said Rev. Shafer. “While I want us to preserve their historical value, I also want them to be places where growing ministries are expressed. Before we think about ‘bricks and mortar’ let us think about the growing need for God’s ministry in this city and beyond. Looking at issues of accessibility and expansion are part of our strategic vision of the future, and that is the task of this group of committed individuals. Our goal is that our buildings be used not just because they are inherently beautiful, but because they enable an authentic expression of ministry.” More specifically, Hanrahan says, the
group’s goals are multiple, and include: • identifying immediate health and safety concerns on campus; • recommending the best and most efficient use of current spaces; • assessing current and future needs of all campus groups, as well as outside community groups; • addressing campus-wide accessibility needs; and • if applicable, recommending potential changes. A tall order, to be sure. An added challenge is the project’s timeline. Church leadership hopes to be able to have a final plan in hand by June 30, 2013. “We want to have our information-gathering finished by Thanksgiving,” said Hanrahan. “We hope to syn-
thesize and test our thinking by March, and present our plan to the trustees and church council during April and May.” A charge conference would then be held in September to to bring church membership up to date. Church members who are involved with on-campus groups may have already been contacted by this new task force, as the group hit the ground running and began connecting with group leaders soon after their formation in September. In the end, the task force would like to gather the opinions of as many church members as possible. To that end, a survey has been created that all are invited to fill out. It can be found at www.asburyfirst.org. You are also invited to attend one of the open forums to be held on campus this fall (see box for details). For now, Hanrahan is happy with the initial progress made by the Task Force. “It’s really too early to make any recommendations or assess our success,” he admits. But he promises to make sure that the congregation is informed at every step of the way. The Task Force and its work will be a regular feature in The Visitor through the winter, as we strive to ensure that our members are kept abreast of all that is done by this group to chart our future course.
OPEN FORUMS
A series of forums will be held on the following dates to allow church members to discuss their concerns and thoughts with task force members and church leadership. Sunday, November 4 at 12:15 p.m. ...................................Red Room of 1010 East Ave. Tuesday, November 13 at 7:00 p.m. ..................................Red Room of 1010 East Ave. Sunday, November 18 at 9:45 a.m. ............................................................. Fellowship Hall
5
The Planned Giving Committee at Asbury First invites you to a presentation
A Winning Proposition: How To Make the Most of your Nest Egg Dana K. Miller, Vice President for Advancement, Rochester Community Foundation Sunday, December 2 ~ 12:30-1:30 p.m. 1010 East Ave. Dining Room What is a planned gift? How can you increase your cash flow in retirement while you’re benefitting your church? Why is a gift annuity a win-win for everyone? Dana Miller and Asbury First’s Planned Giving Committee members will look at these and other questions to help you sort out the sometimes confusing world of planning giving. A light lunch will be served. Please RSVP to Melody Guadagnino, 271-1050 x103 or mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org.
Bill Lisi Named Finalist for The Farash Prize for Social Entrepreneurship Selection Recognizes Bill’s Life of Service to People in Need
I
t is with great pride that we announce AFUMC member Bill Lisi’s selection as one of four finalists for the Farash Foundation award, created in 2011 to honor the legacy of Max Farash by recognizing local leaders who use innovative approaches to address social needs in the Rochester community. Though many of us know Bill as the founder of the Asbury Dining and Caring Center, his pioneering efforts on behalf of vulnerable people started in the 1960’s when he was working as a P.E. teacher for the Rochester City School District and felt called to give up his lunch hour to offer an adapted P.E. class for children with disabilities. At the time, there were no best practices or widely accepted theories on how to teach children with disabilities. Bill figured it out as he went, and drew on his innate ability to connect with “his kids.” “It just came to me,” recalls Bill in his typically self-deprecating manner, “I don’t know if I did it or God did
it…probably God.” He went on to become the City School District’s first Coordinator of Special Education and to develop a curriculum for Nazareth College’s Master of Special Education Program. Though it’s impossible to list all of Bill’s acts of service (largely because he’s too humble to list them!), he has also founded the Asbury First Grocery Bag Ministry, helped to found the Rochester Area Interfaith Network, and of course, our beloved Asbury Dining and Caring Center, 6
which he conceived of at the urging of the late Rev. Margie Mayson to develop new social ministries for the church. Rev. Susan Shafer says, “Bill combines creativity, acumen and compassion in unique and life giving ways. And because of that, he has helped hundreds, if not thousands, of adults and children in our community to find success and to feel valued.” Several members of Bill’s family and the Asbury Dining and Caring Center community joined him for the award ceremony on October 10, 2012, where Tom Ferraro of Foodlink, Inc. was named the winner. It was with deep pride that we sat alongside of our beloved Bill. . In recognition of Bill’s selection as a finalist, the Farash Foundation will make a grant of $10,000 to support our operations. Thank you Bill, from all of us, for your example of a life defined by quiet, fervent service to people in need. You inspire all of us to find new ways to care for God’s kingdom.
Financial Stewardship at Asbury First Breathe Life Into Our Ministries: Pledge Now
There are so many more magic moments that Asbury First creates as it changes lives. And the values that Asbury First teaches gets passed on to generations and to guests. All these seeds are planted inside and outside the church.
Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Have you submitted your Estimate of Giving pledge card yet? By filling out your pledge card, you have the power to bring life to Asbury First’s ministries of worship, education, membership care, and outreach. Take a moment to clip out the card below and drop it in the offering basket next Sunday. Or if you prefer, you can pledge online at www.asburyfirst.org. Thank you for all you do to support your church!
It is the people of Asbury First that Make Ministry Happen. If everyone gives of themselves, we can make this goal, to continue and make even more magic moments.”
Asbury First United Methodist Church
Totals as of Wednesday, October 22 Number of pledges received...................................................... 297
To continue Christ’s work, I/we offer this gift of financial support
Our pledge goal.......................................................................... 600
to the annual operating budget for 2013:
number of new pledgers ............................................................. 15 (those who have not previously submitted a pledge form)
My/our estimate of giving for 2013 is
Amount pledged.............................................................. $698,070
$
Our financial goal..........................................................$1,010,000
or $
Why Pledge?
$ to be used for
❑ monthly ❑ weekly Are you interested in electronic funds transfer? ❑ yes (If yes, we will contact you)
I have experienced a Weight Support group encourage, teach, laugh and support members so that they attain their goal weight ... all cheering each other on. I have observed a Greeter take the time to meet an overwelmed and slightly ornery parishioner, and by taking that parishioner’s hand and complimenting them, caused the parishioner to smile ... and feel appreciated.
•
I have watched the smiles and encouragement of parishioners to a young person as he prepared to do his Mission Moment, and all laughing and cheering him on. w
________________
If you would like envelopes, please indicate your preference.
I have seen a choir group band together to give rides to a choir member to rehearsal and Sunday services so this vital person can participate and bring us his gift of music.
•
= $
In addition, I/we offer a designated gift of
I have seen ‘magic moments’ happen at Asbury First ... not just in the service itself but at other times as well.
•
per
or increase last year’s gift by ____________percent
Here are some thoughts, shared by one AFUMC member with Rev. Susan Shafer in an email, on why she pledges: “We started the slogan Making Ministry Happen, and I have heard wonderful Mission Moments on Sunday mornings commending Asbury First on its positive influence with children’s programming, getting the family together into church during crazy times, the Prayer Shawl Ministry and the mission trips. These are fantastic stories that make a difference in ours and others’ lives.
•
per month for 12 months = $
Total estimated gift for 2013 $ Name(s): Address:
email:
7
We Welcome the following new members, who joined our Asbury First family on October 14. We’re glad you’re with us!
James D. Coleman, Sr.
Brian McCadden
James was born in Rochester, and has lived here all his life. He’s married and has three children, 15 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren. He retired from Xerox in 1990 and loves the retired life.
Brian was born in Rochester, where he still lives. He was raised with his five brothers in Mendon, with summers on Canandaigua Lake. he enjoys time spent with his kids, wife, and dog. “Bringing the church back into my life,” he says, “has given me a distinct joy.”
Patricia (Pat) Coleman
Alexandria McCadden
Pat Coleman lives in Brighton. She graduated from R.I.T., and previously attended East Rochester United Methodist Church, where she was involved with the Bible study program. Pat loves to work with stained glass, and exhibits her creations at art shows.
Alexandria was born in Canada, raised in Florida, and now resides in Rochester with her husband Brian. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and her dog, Shiloh.
Bethany Printup-Davis
Bethany recently relocated back to Rochester after graduating from Nazareth College in 2011, for a new job with the City School District. She grew up on the Tuscarora Indian Nation outside Niagara Falls, and her experiences with the United Methodist Church have helped excourage her spiritual formation. “I’m very excited to share anything I can about my culture, as well as to make new friends – brothers and sisters as we continue to grow as children of God,” she says. “I am so blessed to have found a church family like Asbury First.”
8
Rev. Thomas A. Clemow
Tom is a retired pastor, serving in that capacity for 42.5 years. He is currently a property management consultant with the UMC Conference board of Trustees. He is, he says “very happy to be a part of the ministry at Asbury First.”
Linda M. Clemow
Linda is a commissioned deacon in the United Methodist Church, preparing to be an ordained deacon. Her area of concentration is arts ministry. She and her husband Tom have three children and four grandchildren. Her family moved to Rochester in 1964. “I spent my teenage and young adult years as a member of Asbury First,” she says, “so I am returning home!”
Richard Moncrief
Bill Clugston
Dick has been the financial administrator at Asbury First for six and a half years, following 37 years in the financial area at Kodak. He is married to Sandy, who is the parish administrator at Reformation Lutheran Church. They have two children: Jennifer and Scott. “I am already deeply enriched by my involvement with the members and staff at Asbury First,” Dick says, “and I anticipate a deepening of these relationships.”
William (Bill) moved to Brighton on October, 2011. On October 8, he married Susan Schnorr. The ceremony took place at Asbury First and was performed by Senior Minister Susan Shafer. He and his wife live in Brighten with their two daughters. Bill has two sons; the older one is a doctor and the younger just graduated from the University of Detroit – Mercy. His background is in newspapers, and national magazine publishing industry. In his spare time he enjoys quality family time, reading, and outdoors, especially fly fishing.
Susan Schnorr
Susan lives in Brighton with her husband and two daughters. She is the founder of Training Insights, a firm that designs custom training solutions for corporations. She also teaches as an adjunct professor for Walden University in the instructional technology program. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, This past year she joined a running club.
Nathan Jacobia
Nathan grew up in the Albany area and was a member of Shenendahowa United Methodist Church. He went to Roberts Wesleyan College, and moved here to Rochester about a month ago. He works at Heritage Christian Services at Springdale Farm, working with people with disabilities. He is an adamant football fan. 9
Holiday Matters
Mark your calendars! Here’s a wrap-up of some of the events that will be taking place soon at AFUMC. Children’s Outreach Mission Our Sunday School classes will be collecting can goods for the families of School 41. These goods will be put in bags and delivered to the families for the holidays. Each class will bring in different items. Please see the list below. •
Pre-K/Kindergarten: Canned Fruit/Vegetables
•
1st/2nd Grade: Pasta, Pasta Sauce, Soup
•
3rd/4th Grade: Rice, Boxed Potato Mixes, Stuffing
•
5th/6th Grade: Dessert Mixes, Pudding
Please bring in your donations on November 4, 11, and 18. Please have your children join us as we pack all the bags on November 25.
A Donation and Decoration all in one! Asbury Day Care Center is pleased to offer fresh Holiday Wreaths from Clover Nursery and Garden Center again this year. The Annual Wreath Sale will be held before and after each service on Sunday, December 2, 2012. A pre-order, pre-pay option is available. Call 461-2920 (Day Care office) to reserve a wreath. All proceeds will benefit the classrooms at Asbury. The teachers, parents, and children of Asbury Day Care Center greatly appreciate your joining us in this effort. Thanks!
Christmas for Storehouse Kids YOU can help make Christmas a little brighter for a needy boy or girl this year. The Storehouse will be collecting toys and games on four Sundays: November 25, and December 2, 9 and 16. Bring your unwrapped gifts to the Gathering Center on those dates, and help bring a smile to the face of a child during this blessed season. Our preferred donations are new toys, toys, and more toys!
Christmas Craft Show Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 2, in Fellowship Hall for the annual Holiday Craft Show. If you are an artisan, then consider reserving a table to display and sell your wares. Share your gifts and talents – all handmade art/craft projects are welcome. Cheryl Thompson and Henrietta Foster are this year’s co-chairs. To reserve your table, contact Cheryl at cathompson@rochester.rr.com or 315-9809. In the holiday spirit, we suggest that 20 percent of your sales go to missions. Looking for a unique gift? Stop by on December 2! We’ll have more holiday information for you in the next issue of The Visitor, in mailboxes the last week of November. 10
Thanksgiving In-Gathering Sunday, November 18
A
s we pause on Thanksgiving Sunday to give thanks for all the good things we’ve been given by God, we also remember those who have less. This year’s In-Gathering collection will benefit the following:
•
Your financial gifts, as well as gifts of canned soups and vegetables, peanut butter, jams and jellies, and tuna fish will be used by the Grocery Bag Ministry for their monthly donation of 75 bags of groceries to an inner-city church. •
Gifts of hats and caps, gloves, mittens, scarves, coffee, creamer, sugar, pancake mix and syrup, white tube
socks, and personal hygiene items like toothbrushes, razors, and soap will allow the Dining and Caring Center to feed their guests and assemble holiday bags for them. Please bring your gifts to church on November 18 and help make a difference in the lives of your brothers and sisters in Christ.
Ready for some mouth-watering PIE? Sunday, November 18 After all services
The youth of Asbury First are selling pumpkin pies and other baked goods to help you prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday. All proceeds support the youth mission trip. Why not make your life a little bit easier this busy week and support a great cause at the same time? All pies $10. 11
music & the arts join us for our 2012-2013 series!
F
rom the majesty of J.S. Bach’s great St. Matthew Passion to the rhythmic complexity of Olivier Messiaen’s mesmerizing works for organ, you will find much to love at Asbury First’s 2012/2013
Music & the Arts Concert Series. Accompanied by the church’s resonant Austin organ and utilizing the talents of Eastman School of Music students as well as nationally-known musical groups, we present a smorgasbord of sacred music, both vocal and instrumental, that spans the globe and the centuries.
Make We Joy: Concentus in Concert
J.S. Bach’s St. Matthew Passion
Sunday, December 2
(sung in English)
3:00 p.m.
Sunday, March 3
free will offering at the door
3:00 p.m.
Join us as we a light a spark of Advent anticipation
Tickets: free will offering at the door
with the warm, ethereal tones of Concentus and their
Considered one of the masterpieces of classical
guest instrumentalists, singing songs for the holidays.
sacred music, the St. Matthew Passion is presented by the brilliantly talented young musicians of the
Luther College Nordic Choir
Eastman Chorale, along with student soloists from
Sunday, January 20
Eastman School of Music, Cordancia Chamber
4:00 p.m.
Ensemble, and Asbury First’s resident choirs under
Tickets: $10/$5 students and seniors
the baton of Dr. William Weinert, Eastman’s
The magnificent a cappella Luther College Nordic
director of choral activities and Asbury First’s musical director of art and music.
Choir has performed across the globe and at some of America’s most prestigious concert halls, from
Envisioning the Passion
the Kennedy Center to New York’s Lincoln Center.
Friday, March 29
Hommage à Messiaen: A Festival of Contemporary Organ Music
12 noon and 7:30 p.m.
Friday, February 15
Sacred music appropriate to the season is performed
7:30 p.m.
by Voices, Rochester’s professional chamber chorus,
free will offering at the door
as images of great works of art related to Christ’s
Eastman School of Music’s most accomplished
death and resurrection are projected on a screen. It
Free will offering at the door
is a profoundly moving experience, and we invite
organ students present some of Messiaen’s
you to share in it.
influential compositions, along with works by his students and successors.
12
The Youth of Asbury First Proudly Present
An updated retelling of Hans Christian Anderson’s story of the Ugly Duckling. November 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. November 11 at 1:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 and are now on sale on Sundays in our Welcoming Hall. A special box lunch will be sold ($8.00) for the 1:00 p.m. performance by advance reservation only. All seats and box lunches may also be reserved by calling 271-1050 x. 116, or emailing Susan Miller at smille10@rochester.rr.com. We hope to see you there!
13
Library news
N
ovember commences holiday season with Thanksgiving and Christmas vacations and extra reading time. So we have some November Resource Library selections that will help you choose vacation reading books. Take a look at the below book selections for children, young adults and adults. They are just a few of the many possibilities available for loan in the Church Resource Library. The library is located just off the gathering space near the elevators. When the church is open, the library is open, and everyone is welcome! Children: The Old Ladies Who Liked Cats, by Carol Greene, Pictures by Lorette Krupinski. This is a beautifully illustrated ecological folktale that illustrates how things work together in the world.
Adult: Into the Beautiful North by Luis Alberto Urrea. It’s the current “If All of Rochester Reads the Same Book” selection. This book was inspired by a screening of The Magnificent Seven. The young heroine decides to save her beloved town by a making a journey north to bring back some of the men who have abandoned the town. Author Urrea is credited with creating a surprising, inventive, and very funny novel complete with an array of quirky characters.
Papa Panov’s Special Day, by Ruben Saillens, adapted by Leo Tolstoy, Retold by Mig Holder, and illustrated by Tony Morris. As a shoemaker waits all day for Jesus to visit him on Christmas, he performs many acts of kindness for the passersby. This classic folk tale was adapted by Leo Tolstoy from an original French tale.
Putting Away Childish Things by Marcus J. Borg. Marcus Borg fans will be delighted with Putting Away Childish Things. It is the first novel by leading New Testament scholar and notable nonfiction author and is described as, “a page-turning tale both inspiring and compelling.”
Young Adult: Whirligig by Paul Fleischman. While traveling to each corner of the country to build a whirligig in memory of the girl whose death he caused, sixteen-year-old Brian finds forgiveness and atonement.
Parenting Section: The Reading Promise: My Father and the Books We Shared by Alice Ozma. Father and daughter embarked on a streak of reading-out-loud sessions every night before bed as author Ozma was growing up. At first they decided on 100 nights straight of reading before bed—a minimum 10 minutes, every night. They continued this plan for 8 years straight, reading from Oz stories to Shakespeare. Ozma’s work is humorous and warm, and includes an exceptional reading list.
The Mighty by Rodman Philbrick At the beginning of eighth grade, learning disabled Max and his new friend Freak, whose birth defect has affected his body but not his brilliant mind, find that when they combine forces they make a powerful team.
October
19 Ezra 4:24-5:17
28 Psalm 72
20 Ezra 6:1-22
29 Psalm 73
21 Ezra 7:1-28
30 Psalm 75
22 Psalm 65
31 Psalm 85
23 Psalm 66
November
7 Psalm 113
13 Zephaniah 1:1-18
24 Psalm 67
1 Psalm 135
8 Psalm 115
14 Zephaniah 2:1-15
25 Psalm 145
2 Psalm 136
9 Psalm 116
15 Zephaniah 3:1-20
26 Psalm 146
3 Psalm 138
10 Psalm 118
16 Haggai 1:1-15
27 Psalm 147
4 Psalm 81
11 Esther 9:20-32
17 Haggai 2:1-23
28 Psalm 148
5 Psalm 111
12 Job 42:1-17
18 Ezra 3:1-13
29 Psalm 149 30 Psalm 150
6 Psalm 112 14
the last word 1 by Michele Cooley 2
F
amily gatherings can be a special time particularly when a meal is involved. Sharing and blessings, with the occasional spilling of a drink, squirming of little ones at a table, laughter and good food all add to the memories of childhood. Memories that are happy sustain us through adulthood and shape who we become as we mature. They determine our perspective on life and our ability to relate to each other. Families that I meet at the Dining Center are here for many reasons. I spoke with Joan, a brave woman who came to eat with her six grandchildren, all under the age of nine. Joan is an older woman with a beautiful smile and a patient demeanor. I was standing in the parking lot when I saw them coming. Five boys were running down the driveway with their little electronic toys and flashlights in hand. Trailing slowly behind was Joan and two year old Isabel. They all had a long bus ride and the boys were hungry and ready to release their energy here at the Dining Center. All were immediately greeted by volunteers Caroline and Meaghan Monihan and urged to sign in. Decorated cup cakes
A Family Affair
were offered while the children were urged to take a seat in the wating area while a table was being readied for them. Joan was happy that she and the children
ing about, pouring drinks, serving dinners, working in the kitchen, greeting guests and chatting with Joan’s grandchildren. Morna Monihan called to
could come.This was the first time they had all been together in a long time. The boys had just been reunited after years in foster care. The children represented two families. The fathers of the children are Joan’s sons and each son now has full custody of his children. It is difficult for the fathers to care for their children and Joan has stepped in. “I love it here,” she said. “This allows me to have a very nice meal, provide a family outing and not have to pay as I would to go to a restaurant. There is no way we could afford this food and all of the volunteers are so nice. They are a blessing to us.”
ask if she and her family could volunteer for us here at the Dining Center. Morna shared how proud she is of the ADCC and wanted her family to have the experience of helping others. She and her husband Phil stress the importance of giving back, and while her family was visiting from Boston and Buffalo, she thought it would be nice for them to have the Dining Center experience. They were a wonderful help on a Sunday when many people were away for Columbus Day weekend. There were nine Monihans helping out: Morna, Phil, Meaghan, Phil Jr., Kristen, Grace (14 years old), Thomas (11 years old), Ryan (9 years
Another large family was mill15
old), and Caroline (6 years old). I asked the Monihans how they liked the experience. I observed them interacting with Joan’s grandchildren, which was so touching. Thomas said: “It was a lot funner than I thought. Made me feel great helping people.” Ryan: “I had on a Patriot shirt and everyone was talking about the Bills. Everyone was nice.” Caroline: “It is nice to help people.” All of the Monihans talked about coming back to volunteer again and will be helping us on Thanksgiving Day. (The following day, Morna and Phil, who had hosted a Dinner Among Friends meal, reported that they had received $1300 from their guests!) Joan’s family left fully energized, with sprits buoyed. “Thank you and God Bless you. We will definitely be back.” She said as they departed. A special thank you to the Monihans for sharing their Columbus Day weekend with us, and thank you and God speed to Joan for the gifts of your grandchildren and your dedication to their needs. The Monihans and Joan’s family shared a unique experience here at the Dining Center, a positive one with happy memories.
PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
Christmas Altar Poinsettia Donation Form
Given by_______________________________________________________________________ (please print clearly) phone: day______________________________evening__________________________________ Please check one of the following and print the names clearly: ____in loving memory of: _______________________________________________ ____in honor of: _____________________________________________________ ____in celebration of:__________________________________________________ ____a donation. Please return this form to the church office, attention Beverly Schuman, no later than Thursday, December 6. Please include your donation. Checks should be made payable to Asbury First UMC Altar Guild. Thank you, and have a very merry Christmas!